Ben Kweller’s son Dorian, 16, dies in car accident

Father calls son ‘a true poet from the day he started speaking’

Dorian Zev Kweller has died in a car accident at the age of 16 (Instagram / benkweller)

The son of singer-songwriter Ben Kweller has died in a car accident at the age of 16.

Dorian Zev Kweller’s death was confirmed by Mr Kweller in an Instagram post on Tuesday.

“There’s no way that I can be typing this but I am…. Our son, Dorian Zev Kweller, was killed last night,” Mr Kweller wrote. “He was only 16 and he was a true legend. Kindest, gentle soul, a friend to all. If you knew him, you know. We’ll never get over him as long as we’re here on earth. Please keep his spirit alive with your memories and the music he made: @reallyzev.”

“Dorian Zev wrote and recorded songs every day,” Mr Kweller added. “A true poet from the day he started speaking. Only a few of his recordings were released but he was on a path and excited about his journey. He had so many plans!!!”

“His first gig was in two weeks, at SXSW. My last text with him was about the merch he wanted to make. My baby boy was at the starting line with so much life ahead of him… I have no idea why things like this happen,” he said.

“We’re in complete shock and don’t know what the future holds. Lizzy, Judah, and I have no idea how to deal with this disaster. Thank you for your prayers and support and we apologize if we are slow to respond to messages,” he concluded.

“If you’ve ever been touched by a @benkweller song, please hold him and his family in your heart today,” singer-songwriter Ben Lee tweeted following the announcement.

“Terrible news. Sending all the love and light to ⁦@benkweller⁩ and his family,” singer-songwriter Nakia added.

“This shatters my heart. I am thinking of you and your beautiful family. Sending all of my love. Let me know if i can help in any way possible,” Kevin Morby wrote in a comment on Instagram.

“We are heartbroken and feel lucky to have known him. Dorian lived sixteen years full of the love and light you gave him,” the band Guster added.

Singer-songwriter Pete Yorn said: “Omg Ben no words. Heart breaks. Can’t even fathom this. Deepest condolences to you and your family.”